Course Description

The MA in International Relations and World Order provides an in-depth examination of global politics in the post-Cold War era. This programme offers students the opportunity to study a wide range of international issues, with a particular focus on whether the international system that has emerged is based on a Western model of ‘World Order’.

The course introduces various concepts of order in the post-Cold War context and encourages critical thinking about the nature of international relations, specifically the extent to which Western interests, institutions, and culture dominate the global system, along with the challenges and responses that such dominance provokes. Both theoretical and empirical approaches are explored throughout the programme.

You will undertake two core modules, including one that critically analyses how the West maintains its concept of ‘Order’. In addition, you will choose two optional modules that allow you to focus on areas of personal or professional interest. The dissertation provides a further opportunity to specialise. This degree not only enhances your understanding of contemporary international relations but also develops your critical thinking, analytical skills, and ability to construct well-reasoned arguments.

Course Content

Post-Cold War World Order

This module explores the mechanisms through which Western powers seek to maintain global order. It begins with an examination of the relationship between justice and order in international relations, followed by a study of the concept of a ‘New World Order’ and its originality. The emergence of the United States as the sole superpower following the Cold War is analysed, including its efforts to promote and embed its model of order globally.
Key themes include:

• Global security and the international economic system
• The role of international institutions such as the United Nations
• Challenges to Western-led order from non-Western regions and academic perspectives

Theories of International Relations

This module offers a comprehensive review of the principal theories that underpin the study of international relations. It includes:

• Traditional theories: Realism and Liberalism
• Alternative approaches: Marxism, Postmodernism, and Feminist theories
  Students will explore how these theories explain international events and power dynamics, the historical evolution of international relations as a discipline, and the roles played by both state and non-state actors. The module also links international relations theory to broader social science debates and historical developments.

Optional Modules (Select Two)

• American Interventionism After the Cold War
• Democracy and Legitimacy in the European Union
• Diplomatic Systems
• Intelligence: Key Concepts and Debates
• International Security
• The Art of Negotiation
• The International Politics of Protection
• EU Enlargement and Democratic Consolidation in Post-Communist Europe
• The Politics of Human Rights
• Strategy in the Modern World
• Governance and Corruption
• The Politics of European Integration
• Euroscepticism
• The Politics of Conflict and Violence
• Gender in Global Perspective
• The Politics of the Modern Global Nuclear Order
• The Politics of Violent Conflict and its Legacies in Northern Ireland
• Europe as a Global Actor
• Political Economy of International Development

Mode of Study

The MA International Relations and World Order is delivered entirely online via the University of Leicester’s distance learning platform. As such, regular and reliable internet access is essential—preferably through a broadband connection.

Key Learning Features:

• Access to the Leicester Digital Library, including thousands of academic journals and e-books
• Weekly reading materials with questions and exercises to guide your critical engagement
• Online forums for discussion, debate, and collaborative learning
• Supportive e-tivities designed to develop your research and academic writing skills
• A combination of non-assessed and assessed work, including reflective statements and final essays

Each module is structured to provide a balance of flexibility and consistency, particularly suited for working professionals. You will benefit from regular online support, including access to tutors via email, Skype, and the Blackboard platform, as well as administrative assistance by phone.

Course Fees

To receive the most current information regarding tuition fees for this programme, please contact the University directly.